But before we go any further, it's time to discuss something about which we've been thinking for several months: We need term limits on the speaker.

Regardless of the next speaker's identity, they should be limited to three sessions.

History shows that allowing speakers to continue past three terms is dangerous. Joe Straus was never good on policy, but during the early days he kept the abusive lawlessness to a minimum. Gib Lewis became mired in scandal during his fifth session. Tom Craddick became known as "auto-Craddick" during his third.

Furthermore, the best time to push for this reform is during a vacancy. Regardless of the next speaker's identity, there are going to be members disappointed by the outcome. One would think they would like another shot in a few years.

Finally, term limits for the speaker could only help to decentralize power away from the speaker's office.

Bottom Line: An open seat race is the best time to advance this process reform that should have been adopted a long time ago.